California WorldFest Gears Up For No. 20

Boz Scaggs, Third World, Terrance Simien, and Nahko and Medicine For The People are among the music makers performing at the 20th edition of California WorldFest planned for mid-July within view of the mighty Sierra Nevada mountain range.

Photo: © Jeff Moore
Sandler Center For The Perf. Arts, Virginia Beach, Va.

It’s called “WorldFest” for a reason.  Planned for July 14-17 at the Nevada County Fairgrounds in Grass Valley, the weekend event emphasizes world music.  This year’s lineup includes Swedish/Icelandic female duo My Bubba, Africa’s Peter Mawanga and Native American group Little Thunder.

Simply put, WorldFest is a “Festival of discovery.”

 “In any kind of festival with a strong curatorial perspective, it’s crucial to find that balance, the flow of the event from one performer to another,” WorldFest top gun Julie Baker said.  “It’s about phenomenal quality, first and foremost, we want people to have a great time, discover new artists and come away feeling connected on a global level.”

And be sure to bring the family.  WorldFest provides activities and music dedicated to kids ranging from toddlers to teens.  Plus there’s more than 50 workshops featuring music, dance, wellness, crafts and more.

Photo: Shahar Azran / Apollo Theater
"One Love: A Bob Marley Tribute Concert," Apollo Theater, New York City

“WorldFest is a place for people to engage,” Baker said.  “To disconnect from the world of gadgets and technology and instead connect with people on a global scale.

“The music is amazing.  If you look at the lineup, if you’re very into world music, you’ll know some of the names.  If you’re a general music fan, there won’t be a whole lot of names you’ll recognize, necessarily.  It’s about artists who will be able to open music fans’ eyes and ears and minds.  You may not hear this music on commercial radio, but you’ll be blown away in person.  You will walk away with a brand new playlist.”

Tickets, including passes for on-site RV and tent camping, are still available.  Click here for more details.